Children grieve differently than adults, and their need to grieve in their own way is sometimes overlooked. Children don't just 'get over' grief but need time to learn to cope with their loss and the many other changes that often occur following a death.

"Even years after the loss, when mom or another loved one has died, children can still experience difficult days," said Terese Vorsheck, Highmark Caring Place director. "A holiday like Mother's Day can strengthen feelings of grief, sometimes bringing up emotions that are surprising in their intensity."

The Caring Place provides onsite programs at its Pittsburgh, Erie, Lemoyne and Warrendale facilities and online resources to help grieving children and families cope with their loss. These resources include the following:

Educational brochures for families and professionals in the community that address the needs of grieving children.

Answers to commonly asked questions about coping with loss.

Literature explaining grieving in children, adults and families.

Testimony from children on how the Caring Place helped them through their difficult time.

Tips on how you can help a grieving child or family.

At the Caring Place, children have the support of others like them who know what it's like to live with such a big loss. They have the support of their peers and also of caring, trained volunteers and staff.

Over time, children and their families learn that they are not alone in the thoughts, feelings and experiences they share since the death. Through the healing process, bereaved children and families discover that while death has taken a loved one from them, the love lives on inside of the child.

All Highmark Caring Place programs are offered to the community, regardless of insurance coverage and at no cost. The Caring Place is supported by trained volunteers from the community. For more information, visit www.HighmarkCaringPlace.com.